Arlington spikers get first Wesco win

ARLINGTON ­— Eagles coach Melissa Thompson could see it coming.

“We came so close earlier this week (against Snohomish) that I thought if we worked hard all week, we’d get the win,” Thompson said after Arlington defeated Stanwood 3-1, Oct. 7.

The Eagles kept pace with Snohomish just two days earlier, but didn’t come out with the win.

Stanwood was a different opponent, but showed they needed to be respected nonetheless, as the Spartans came out and took the first set 26-24.

“You have to show up for every point, and we talked about earning each one, which I felt we weren’t doing in the first game,” Thompson said.

Arlington changed it’s style, although not right away. Trailing 7-5, rattled off four straight points to take its first lead of the second set. From that confidence builder, the Eagles’ front line grew more aggressive ­— not just on the attack, but blocking as well.

“They were amazing up front,” said Thompson about her blockers, who combined for 14 stuff blocks.

Leading the way for the Eagles in that regard was senior Kenzie Jorgenson.

The Eagles used their line, which is comprised of three girls over six feet — Jorgenson, Cassie Van Loo and Lexi Sarver — to hassle the Spartans.

“I don’t think people realize what an advantage their height is,” Thompson said. “I don’t even think they do, because when you lose, you’re still the same height.”

Arlington won the following set 25-20 with the help of some consistent serving by Van Loo, who also finished the match with a team-leading 13 kills.

The Eagles took the fourth set 25-22 to secure the win, and Thompson gave credit to Sarver, who she said stood out in a solid game for her whole team.

“Lexi was just great all around,” Thompson said. “She was hitting well, and playing great on defense — and blocking.”

Sarver finished with 10 kills.

Arlington (1-3 Wesco North) faces Monroe at home Oct. 19.

Contact Arlington Times Sports Reporter Travis Sherer at tsherer@marysvilleglobe.com or 360 659-1300 Ext. 5054.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.